Journal Review: How TMS Therapy Is Evolving — What It Means for Patients
- TMS Therapy Blog
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
Based on the August 2024 article in the American Journal of Psychiatry https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.20240859
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has steadily gained recognition as a safe and effective treatment option for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. A recent article published in the American Journal of Psychiatry offers a comprehensive update on the current landscape of TMS therapy and its clinical application. Titled “Treating Depression With Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: A Clinician’s Guide”, the paper outlines updated protocols, treatment outcomes, and important considerations for both providers and patients.
While written for clinicians, the findings have clear implications for anyone considering or currently receiving TMS therapy. This blog highlights key takeaways from the publication and what they mean for patients navigating depression treatment.
What Is TMS?
TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation—most commonly the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. It is typically used in cases where patients have not responded to antidepressant medications or other conventional treatments.
Unlike medications, TMS does not circulate through the bloodstream, which means it avoids systemic side effects. Treatment is delivered while the patient is awake and alert, and sessions typically take less than 15 minutes, depending on the protocol used.
Key Findings from the 2024 AJP Study
1. TMS is effective for treatment-resistant depression.The article reaffirms the robust body of evidence supporting TMS. According to data reviewed by the authors, approximately 50 to 60 percent of patients with treatment-resistant depression respond positively to TMS therapy. Around 30 percent achieve full remission. These outcomes are particularly encouraging for individuals who have tried multiple medications without success.
2. Personalized protocols are essential for safety and efficacy.Clinicians are advised to customize TMS treatment plans based on several factors, including motor threshold testing (to determine the correct stimulation intensity), coil positioning, and session frequency. The article stresses the importance of tailoring each treatment to the individual to achieve the best possible outcome while maintaining safety. Once you have failed two medications, TMS is more likely to be beneficial than another medication trial.
3. Newer protocols reduce treatment time.The review emphasizes the growing use of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), a newer FDA-cleared protocol that significantly shortens the length of each session—from the traditional 37 minutes down to approximately 3 minutes. Clinical trials have shown iTBS to be as effective as standard high-frequency TMS, making it an attractive option for patients seeking a more time-efficient therapy.
4. Accelerated TMS is emerging as a viable option.We are now offering a five day protocol that involves 10 treatments a day over the whole day. While this protocol has been granted FDA clearance, it is not yet covered by insurances. Clinical evidence indicates that it may be more effective than the standard protocol.
5. Improvement occurs gradually.Patients are advised to be patient with the process. Symptom relief typically begins between the second and fourth week of treatment. Completing the full course is critical to achieving meaningful and lasting results.
What This Means for Patients
This article serves as both a validation of TMS’s effectiveness and a guide to how the therapy is evolving to meet patient needs. If you or a loved one is considering TMS, here’s what to take away:
TMS is supported by decades of clinical research and is FDA-cleared for treatment-resistant depression.
Treatment is safe, non-invasive, and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects.
Newer protocols like iTBS and accelerated treatment are making therapy more accessible and convenient.
Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s unique needs.
While results take time, many patients experience significant improvement by the end of their treatment course.
Read the Full Study
For those interested in reviewing the complete publication, the article is available online through the American Journal of Psychiatry: https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.20240859
If you are considering TMS or would like to learn more about how it works, we encourage you to speak with your care provider or schedule a consultation at a certified TMS clinic. We can be reached at 781-963-7775, or email us at tms@sepsychiatric.com Understanding your options is the first step toward taking control of your mental health journey.
